Description
This Savory Italian Meatloaf with Cheese is a cozy, flavor-packed dinner idea that’s perfect for easy weeknight meals or special occasions. Juicy ground beef, fresh herbs, melty mozzarella, and a zesty marinara topping create layers of irresistible Italian flavor. It’s a quick dinner, healthy comfort food, and an easy recipe all in one—ideal for your list of dinner ideas, comfort meals, or anytime food ideas.
Ingredients
1.5 pounds ground beef
1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small zucchini, grated and squeezed
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 cup marinara sauce, divided
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
6 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a loaf pan or parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, zucchini, onion, garlic, parsley, basil, half the marinara sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently mix with hands until just combined—do not overmix.
4. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of your pan, then layer with mozzarella slices, leaving edges clear.
5. Top with the remaining meat mixture and press to seal the cheese inside.
6. Spread remaining marinara sauce over the top of the loaf.
7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, then top with extra mozzarella during the last 10 minutes of baking.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use block mozzarella for best melting results—avoid pre-shredded cheese.
Don’t skip resting the meatloaf after baking, it helps hold the juices and shape.
Squeeze zucchini thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the loaf.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: easy dinner, comfort food, Italian meatloaf, cheesy meatloaf, family meals, food ideas